North Iowa residents discuss data center questions
Questions about water supplies, infrastructure costs and the potential effects of data centers brought residents together for a recent community discussion hosted by Iowa Citizens for …
Mason City school board to review early retirement benefits increase for 2026-27
The Mason City Community School District Board of Education will discuss a proposed early retirement benefit program for district employees during a Committee of the Whole work/study s…
When Pigs Fly Event Rescheduled for Sunday, October 4, 2026
We’re excited to announce that When Pigs Fly has officially been rescheduled!And we have even more exciting news: thanks to this incredible community, we reached the full Hearing Assoc…
Nora Springs Library’s Blind Date Program Returns for Another Successful Summer
The summer 2026 “Blind Date with a Book or Movie” program at the Nora Springs Library had another successful year with more than a dozen participants and the circulation of over 90 boo…
Leslyee’s Library brings books, comfort to children at Floyd County Courthouse
CHARLES CITY — A new library at the Floyd County Courthouse is intended to provide something simple for children who may be accompanying their families through anything but a simple da…
Youth deer season kicks off in Iowa
Designed as a mentor-styled approach to teach young hunters proper deer hunting techniques, the season began on Sept. 19 and will run through Oct. 4.
Behind the scenes: keeping Rockford running
ROCKFORD — Changing seasons and unexpected calls are familiar parts of the job for Rockford’s public works team. Public Works Director Dan Paulus has served the city for eight years, w…
Pate urges local businesses to guard against fraud as state, federal efforts expand
As state and federal officials increase efforts to identify and combat business fraud, Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate is urging small-business owners, especially in rural communitie…
Eighth grade leadership class puts lessons into action
ROCKFORD — Eighth grade students at RRMR are learning that leadership goes beyond the classroom, with lessons focused on character, responsibility and serving their community.Eighth gr…
Studer receives Young Entrepreneur of the Year honor
Hampton business owner Lance Studer was recognized for his entrepreneurial success and contributions to North Iowa during the 2026 Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala.Studer, owner of Lance St…
Cerro Gordo County 4-H sees 36% growth, expands clubs and after-school programs
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Cerro Gordo County is reaching more young people through 4-H, with enrollment growth, new clubs and expanded after-school programming he…
Cerro Gordo County Board Of Supervisors hears concerns over deteriorating roads, approves repairs
Road conditions and construction projects were among the issues addressed by the Cerro Gordo Board of Supervisors during its Sept. 28 meeting. Brandon Billings, the County Engineer, ad…
Mason City photographer’s work selected for International Art Show
Michelle Skarpness has always felt that there is more to portrait photography than just creating a good image. At its best, it is about helping the person in front of her camera see so…
Lee Montgomery celebrates 10 years of keeping young at Newman Childcare
When Lee Montgomery went looking for a part-time job a decade ago, her requirements were fairly straightforward: no nights, no weekends and no uniform.She had never worked in a school …
Nora Springs Council hears concerns over deteriorating roads, approves paving project
Nora Springs Council hears concerns over deteriorating roads, approves paving projectRoad conditions, upcoming paving work and changes to a parks project were among the issues addresse…
Homecoming spirit fills North Iowa schools
Homecoming brought parades, pep rallies, royalty and plenty of school spirit to students and communities across the Mason City area this week, with Central Springs and Mason City wrapp…